In any case, surgery for weight loss today is more refined and generally safe. Many newer minimally invasive procedures have been developed which means less time mucking around with surgery, less risk of anesthesia and no large incisions. Surgery is much superior to drugs when it comes to weight loss. However, not everyone can undergo weight loss surgery. Obese patients are always at risk for complications when they undergo any type of surgery. Over the years, certain criteria have been developed to ensure both patient safety by selecting the right patient.

Candidate for bariatric surgery

The surgeons do agree that just looking at an obese patient is not adequate to determine his/her eligibility for weight loss surgery. The current guidelines in North America for selecting patients for weight loss surgery include the following:

    - Individuals who have failed to lose weight with drug therapy. The drug therapy should have been tried out for at least 3-6 months
    – Individuals who have failed to lose weight  after enrolling in an intense exercise program of more than 12 month duration
    – Individuals who have a BMI in excess of 40 kg/m2
    – Individuals with a BMI between 35 and 40 kg/m2  and also have on or more co morbid conditions. This may be uncontrolled diabetes, arthritis, poor life style or bed ridden.